Dallas Braden has setback; comeback bid with A’s on hold

The A’s were hoping Dallas Braden would be available to join the rotation in early May, but that no longer seems an option.

“Dallas had a little setback, so he’s not throwing right now. The shoulder, a strain again. We’ll see where he’s at,” said manager Bob Melvin, adding it actually happened in Arizona before the A’s left for Japan.

As for delaying the target date for the pitcher’s return, Melvin said, “Actually we’re on hold with that right now. I don’t have a timetable with him right now.”

Assistant GM David Forst said the A’s would know the extent of the injury when hearing from doctors.

When I spoke with Braden on March 10, he made a telling comment: “If the progress is not impeded and things continue to go well and I continue to take steps, there’s no telling how accelerated the program can be. There’s also no telling if a setback will occur, how long that’ll take to get around. I’m truly taking the day-by-day approach to its fullest.”

Braden’s shoulder surgery was 10 months ago, a similar procedure to Johan Santana’s, which was 18 months ago. Santana finally is ready to pitch in the majors again. He’s the Mets’ Opening Day starter.